What actual documents do I need to start a nonprofit? Which filings come first?
There are 3 basic steps to getting your group started as a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization: • “Organizing” the group as a legal entity, typically by filing Articles of Incorporation in the state in which you will have your primary office to create a nonprofit corporation; • Drafting Bylaws, the rules by which the organization’s governing board (i.e. Board of Directors) operate; and • Applying to the Internal Revenue Service for recognition of federal tax-exempt status using IRS Form 1023. Once your group is incorporated and recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS, it can apply for additional benefits, such as exemption from state income, sales and property taxes, and applying for a nonprofit postal permit with your local postmaster.
Related Questions
- What actual steps do I take? Which filings come first? The practical details (in the USA) of incorporating a nonprofit and filing for tax-exempt status and a nonprofit mailing permit.
- How can I obtain a copy of the bylaws, tax exempt filings or other documents for a nonprofit organization?
- What actual documents do I need to start a nonprofit? Which filings come first?
